From Severe Weather Center 11 to South Park Elementary Center

From Severe Weather Center 11 to South Park Elementary Center

Posted on 02/21/2017

Chief Meteorologist Stephen Cropper from WPXI-TV visited South Park Elementary Center on Tuesday, February 21 to teach students about various weather topics. Third graders are currently learning about weather in science class.

Cropper talked about the science behind snowstorms, thunderstorms, tornadoes and flooding. His presentation also included photos of severe weather events in western Pennsylvania, including the tornado on Mt. Washington in 1998 and the flash flooding on Washington Boulevard in 2011. Cropper was able to use his experience forecasting those storms to help students better understand them.

Students were also introduced to several helpful weather phrases. “Know Before You Go” reminds students to always check the weather before going to any outdoor activity. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” is a reminder Cropper urged students to give to their parents about the dangers of driving during flash flooding.

Cropper also explained why recent winter weather has been much more like spring.

Students were eager to ask Cropper questions on many weather topics. The lessons they learned during the one-hour presentation are sure to help them during their weather unit in science class.